Posted on June 2, 2025
Mersin International Port Management Inc. (MIP), a key gateway terminal in Türkiye and a joint venture between PSA International, IFM, and Akfen, marked a key milestone with the official completion of the first phase of its USD 455 million East Med Hub 2 (EMH2) Terminal. Scheduled for full completion in the first half of 2026, the new terminal will expand MIP’s annual capacity from 2.6 million TEUs to 3.6 million TEUs and enable the simultaneous handling of two Ultra Large Container Vessels (ULCVs). This development is designed to meet the growing regional and global trade demands while strengthening MIP’s position as a strategic logistics hub.
The launch event was attended by distinguished local officials, industry representatives and company executives, including the governor of Mersin, Atilla Toros, the General Manager of the Ministry of Trade, Tarık Sönmez, the Presidential Investment Office Head of Public Private Sector Cooperation Department, Ali Kamil Özmen, and the Singapore Ambassador to Türkiye.
Today’s ceremony celebrates MIP concluding the first phase of EMH2’s construction. This includes the finalization of all dredging works and the official inauguration of the newly extended quay wall – now stretching 880 meters, from its original 500 meters, with a 17.5-metre draft that can handle the next generation of container vessels of up to 24,000 TEUs.
Atilla Toros, Mersin Governor said “Today, Mersin Port, whose foundations were laid in the 19th century, has proudly reached a remarkable milestone by ranking 91st among the world’s top 100 ports. With this investment, which will increase its container handling capacity from 2.6 million to 3.6 million TEUs, the port is set to achieve even greater heights in a very short time. Positioned as one of the most strategic stops along the modern Silk Road, Mersin Port now spans 124 hectares, making it even stronger and more ambitious. As the largest multi-purpose port in Turkey, Mersin Port continues to make a significant contribution to the Turkish economy by providing direct employment to 5,000 people and indirect employment to 30,000 others.”
Tarık Sönmez, Director General of International Trade Services, Ministry of Trade said “I would like to express my great satisfaction in inaugurating the New Terminal at Mersin Port, which stands as a tangible outcome of our country’s decisive steps in transportation and logistics, the strategic importance placed on infrastructure, and the strong cooperation between the public and private sectors. As the Ministry, we firmly believe that modern, high-capacity port infrastructures will not only drive regional development but also enhance our national competitiveness.”
Vincent Ng, Regional CEO of PSA Europe & Mediterranean and PSA Middle East South Asia said, “We look forward to the full completion of EMH2 in 2026 and remain firmly committed to investing in the future of Mersin Port. As part of PSA’s ‘Node to Network’ strategy and our Group’s transition to net zero emissions by 2043, MIP stands as a key example of our dedication to operational excellence and sustainable development. We will continue the strive to create long-term value for the region and contribute meaningfully to Türkiye’s economic development.”
Ajay Kumar Singh, General Manager MIP said, “We are proud and excited to bring this landmark project to life, EMH2 is an initiative that stands as a source of national pride in every respect. Besides boosting terminal performance, we will focus on driving meaningful, long-term environmental progress. MIP’s improvement efforts will support both job creation as well as reinforce its strategic importance on the world stage.”
With Phase 1 completed, MIP is moving ahead with the development of its new 17,6 hectare yard as part of Phase 2. This area will be outfitted with eight advanced automated Rail Mounted Gantry Cranes (aRMGs) and four additional Ship-to-Shore (STS) cranes, that together will enhance operational capabilities and further increase port efficiency. The new electrically powered equipment will also help MIP reach its ambitious sustainability targets of cutting its carbon emissions in half by 2030 and becoming carbon neutral by 2043.
The EMH2 project underscores the essential role of MIP to the local community. Beyond reinforcing Mersin’s status as a strategic trade gateway for Türkiye, the expansion is poised to generate meaningful local impact. Once completed, the project is expected to create 500 direct and up to 5,000 indirect jobs, boosting employment in the region.
